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2016 Chevy Spark Goes Brighter

2016 Chevy Spark Side View

Chevy introduces the 2016 Spark – a slick looking and improved heir of the 2015 Spark. It comes with a modified engine, improved fuel consumption efficiency and incredible safety system. The new Spark also includes a longer wheelbase, improved aerodynamics and overall weight reduction. And, as always, it shows us not just its superior performance, but also the wonderful design – both for the interior and exterior.

And when it comes to design and looks, Chevy team knows how it’s done. They bring us a vehicle that has the well-known and loved Chevrolet look, but combined with some extras, that really make the Spark flash even brighter. The height of the vehicle is reduced, as the overall weight. The minicar comes with dual-port grille and amazing headlights – the really detailed work really boost the wonderful car appearance.

The interior also had its attention. The cabin is carefully designed to match the lowered roof. But this doesn’t mean a smaller inside space – 2016 Spark comes with wide and well designed interior, offering comfortable and pleasurable driving experience. And of course different high-quality components are included: wonderful seats, high quality fabrics and incredible hi-tech gadgets. The innovative MyLink radio, for example, offers a touch screen with an interface, similar to a smartphone. Lovely, right?

The most important part of the vehicle, the engine also had its tweaks and refreshment. The 2016 Spark is geared with completely redesigned 1.4Liter engine that provides 98 hp (73kW) and has wonderful fuel consumption efficiency. In fact, the powerplant is part of the Ecotec family, which explains the wonderful performance and fuel usage. It is made of lightweight materials and works in perfect harmony with the special 5-speed manual gearbox.

As you may know, the 2015 Spark is the Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. But the 2016 model doesn’t just sit there and watch. It has even further-upgraded safety system. MY 2016 Spark is built with stronger body components and comes with even wider range of safety elements: ten airbags are included, a camera-based technology to avoid collisions and many other.

The 2016 Chevrolet Spark goes on sale in the fourth quarter of this year.

Source: Chevrolet

April 2, 2015

Infiniti QX50 and QX30 Concept Make North American Premiere [VIDEO]

Infiniti QX50 Front and Side View It was announced last week that Infiniti will debut at the automobiles event in New York the redesigned QX50. Next to it, the visitors of the show will see the QX30 Concept. We’ve seen the last one debuting at the Geneva Motor Show in March, so we will focus on the QX50 crossover. The first thing to mention about it is the wheelbase. It was extended and this results in increased proportions of the exterior dimensions and interior spaciousness. In fact, room in the cabin has grown with eight cubic feet.

In addition, the exterior also received new appearance. Infiniti obviously decided to bring forward its new design language (we’ve seen it already applied on the Q50 and Q70) thus giving the crossover new LEDs in the form of daytime running and fog lights.

The side sills have new design as well. This where we also see the LED side mirror turn signals and the new 19-inch alloys. The rear fascia was also changed.

Powering this beautiful vehicle is the standard 3.7-liter V6 engine which produces 325 horsepower (239 kW). It is coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission that can drive either the front or all wheels.

The luxurious interior is wrapped in Ivory leather and it will definitely take care for occupants’ optimal comfort. As mentioned the cabin delivers more room now and this is due to the longer wheelbase. To be more precise, it was extended by 3.2 inches. The most of the gain is the additional 4.3 inches of legroom for the rear passengers. Next to the increased interior volume, the QX50 can now proudly stand out with 2.7 cubic feet of added cargo space.

2016 Infiniti QX50 is scheduled to go on sale this fall, while the QX30 Concept will enter production later this year and will have a market launch in 2016.

httpv://youtu.be/m2P-jlovH6I

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Infiniti

April 2, 2015

Kia Debuts Novo Concept Displaying new Design Direction

Kia Novo Concept Front and Side View If you think that this Kia was unveiled at the show in New York, you would be wrong. The car is actually making a premiere at the Seoul Motor Show, displaying its coupe proportions and minimalist interior. I actually wish that it was on display in NY instead of the Optima, which has nothing surprisingly new in it. By the way, do expect a review on the Optima in the upcoming hours.

The concept carries the name “Novo”, inspired by the Latin word “novatus”, literally meaning “innovation”. This signifies that the car comes to show us something fresh and new. Let’s see about that.

As we can tell from the pictures, the exterior design is typical for Kia. The car is built on company’s C-segment global platform that was specifically adapted for this. The sporty stance pf the car is strengthened via the low front overhangs, the longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline.

Kia’s trade mark, the “tiger nose”, was made wider and more deeply embedded. On its both sides we see slim laser headlamps. Large front wheel arches, consistent shoulder, low triangular exhausts at the back and crisp lines at the rear are features that characterize this car.

Inside, the concept is spacious and focuses on the driver via the long and wide dashboard. A very cool feature is the instrument binnacle that displays important information via a three-dimensional hologram display. There is also a touch pad with fingerprint scanner as well as a wide touchscreen in the centre of the dash.

At last, let’s talks about the engine. It is the 1.6-litre T-GDI unit and it is linked to the new seven-speed DCT that transmits the power to the front wheels. What we have as an effect? Great sports performance combined with stunning fuel economy. Or at least Kia says so, since there are no production plans for the Novo Concept. However, this car is definitely an example of the future development directions of the company.

Source: Kia

April 2, 2015

Tenth-Gen Civic Previewed via Concept Version at NYIAS

Honda Civic Concept is so hot that it could only be revealed at the New York Auto Show. The company is actually preparing to launch the redesigned versions of the Civic range this fall. The tenth-generation cars will keep the great performance characteristics and fantastic design. In the lineup, Honda will feature a sedan, coupe and Si model. Oh, and of course, my two favourites: the hatchback and Type R.

The cars will be built on a longer wheelbase. As we can see from the pictures of the concept it is obvious that it stands also lower to the ground and has this wider stance. Precisely, the hood is longer, while the front overhang and rear deck are shorter.

The aggressive look of the car is further strengthened by the prominent fender arches and the new wheel-to-body relationship. At the front we see new LEDs on the both sides of the “Flying H” grille. The latter is supported by deeply sculpted lower air intakes.

The next big thing about the new Civic is that it will be powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series. The unit includes direct injection and is linked to either a six-speed manual transmission or an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). In this way more efficiency is guaranteed, right?

In terms of safety, the Civic concept and all its future siblings will be equipped with Honda Sensing suite. It is filled with advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like the Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control and Honda LaneWatch.

All in all, this concept tells me that the new Civic range will have even more to expect, and I am pretty excited about it. How about you?

Source: Honda

April 2, 2015

Subaru Unveils Unexpectedly STI Performance Concept

Subaru STI Peroformance Concept From the Back To be honest, Subaru’s STI Peroformance Concept is what I didn’t expect to see at the New York Auto Show. Next to the WRX STI Rallycross Car, this vehicle is a main star at company’s stand. The concept is a preview of STI’s (meaning Subaru Tecnica International) car performance characteristics. This also signifies for a bunch of tweaks hidden in this car.

For instance, Subaru said that it has changed the body, chassis and air intake and exhaust systems. Even the BRZ Super GT based engine was improved. In other words the STI Performance Concept is a pure example of the engineering prowess and tuning magic of the STI team.

Another thing that this car comes to tell us is that it is the first step of company’s plans to expand STI in America. As a matter of fact, STI-engineered parts have already replaced Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) aftermarket parts in the U.S. There is also the promise to see other STI tuned vehicles in the U.S.

United States will obviously do what’s trendy in Japan, since the complete cars with the extensive tuning and performance parts are now on sale in Japan. Precisely, the modified models are the WRX STI, Forester and BRZ. To make this even more visible, Subaru has added “S model” nomenclature for the WRX STI and “tS” on BRZ and Forester.

Unfortunately, there are no additional details released, so everything is up to our imagination.

Source: Subaru

April 2, 2015

MINI Shines Bright with All-Chrome Exterior

Mini Chrome Line Exterior Deluxe Concept It’s small, sporty, with British attitude and has stunning appearance. It couldn’t be else but a MINI, right? Well, this deluxe edition is very special, since it is all-chrome. Although some might find it not that cool, it seems to me that this is a strike at the perfect score. The appearance of this car is irresistible and it is an immediate eye-catcher. This is because chrome was not only applied to the headlamps or rear light, and even the radiator grille surrounds, but also it has been used to cover the entire body.

The three-door car has unique visual stance and there is no second though on that. But how about the interior? It offers a go-kart feeling via the position of the central instrument in the cockpit. There are also several design features which are typical for the MINI. But there will be also the option of adding chrome elements throughout the cockpit as well. Nice, isn’t it?

However, there is this logical question about the working process. Since the reflection characteristics of the chrome material are very high, then it is obvious that the manufacturing process should be changed as well.

This MINI will be built in company’s plant in Oxford, UK, where everything will be taken under control. For instance, the hall lights will be automatically dimmed for the perfect and effortless assembly of the car. Even the conveyor belt’s speed will be slowed so that workers can check their clothing and hair. I would actually like to see this on a video. Or maybe for real. Why not? Or wait a minute, is all this an April’s fool joke?

Source: MINI

April 1, 2015

New York Salutes Four Beetle Concepts

Four Beetle Concepts Shown in NY Not one but four Beetle concept cars are debuting at the New York Auto Show today. The iconic Volkswagen is represented via two unique coupe variants and two cabrio versions. Precisely the first two are called Concept R-Line and Pink Edition, while the open top versions are Cabriolet Denim and Wave.

As the name suggest, blue has been chosen for the Denim convertible concept. In fact, the In ‘Stonewashed Blue Metallic’ has been combined with a soft top that also comes in the same hue but it is significantly darker. This reminds me of the most popular trousers in the world (jeans) given that even the fabric of which the top is made recalls jeans’ texture.

Another interesting historical fact is that back in 1970 the world saw the debut of the first ‘Jeans Bug’ that carried the same denim theme. There were two other versions of the model that followed in 1980s and 1990s.

In contrast, the Wave concept comes painted in ‘Habanero Orange Metallic’. This specific color expresses the American spirit on the East and West coast beaches in North America. The spirit can be also felt when one steps inside the car, where fabric patterns from the 50s and 60s served for an inspiration for the design of the centre seat panels. In addition, the car also sports a genuine wood dashpad which comes in a surfboard style.

Ladies beware! There are no excuses for not owning a Beetle anymore, because Volkswagen has also released the Beetle Pink Edition in ‘Fuschine Metallic’ paint scheme. It is very stylish and sweet. And despite the expectations that the interior will have the same color, it has elements in black, chrome and aluminium.

At last, the R-Line concept is what comes to defend the sportive attitude of the Beetle. It is driven by a 2.0-litre TSI engine which boasts 220 hp (162 kW). This one is painted in a color called ‘Oryx White Pearl Effect’, but has more to that to impress with. Take for instance the independent bumpers and the black wrap-around body paneling. Black was also the choice for the diffuser and a large rear spoiler. The sportiness is continued inside via the sport bucket seats and leather-carbon look highlights.

In this range of concepts Volkswagen has literally offered a color for the most capricious taste. The question is: which one suits you the best?

Source: Volkswagen

April 1, 2015

Chevrolet Premieres Malibu Generation Nine

2016 Chevrolet Malibu is the main highlight at General Motors’ stand at the New York Auto Show. The new model is entirely redesigned and can show-off with a host of exclusive features like the new connectivity and safety systems. Not to mention the enhanced efficiency due to the new hybrid powertrain. The eco-friendly technology was taken directly from the Volt model and then adapted to the needs of the larger car. Precisely, the estimated combined fuel economy is more than 45 mpg. To compare this number, the standard 1.5L turbo unit is rated at 37 mpg highway.

Other very important aspect that contributes to the great efficiency is that the car is nearly 300 pounds (136 kg) lighter than before. It is also longer with four inches (101 mm) and these two facts result in more space for the occupants.

To go further into details, Volt’s 1.8L four-cylinder engine is combined with two-motor drive unit. The total output is 182 horsepower (136 kW). The unit is also equipped with Chevy’s Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery (EGHR) which works by utilizing the exhaust heat to warm the engine and cabin. The electric power comes from the 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can drive the Malibu alone up to 55 miles per hour (88 km/h). Regenerative braking system is also present.

As a standard, the Malibu comes with the brand new Ecotec 1.5L turbo unit, rated at 37 mpg on the highway. It produces 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (250 Nm). If one looks for a higher-output, then Chevy has prepared for them the 2.0L turbocharged engine, which generates 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm), and has fuel efficiency rating of 22 mpg and 32 mpg in the city and on the highway, respectively.

There are a lot of technology features in the new Malibu regarding infotainment and safety that can usually be found in GMC models. The most interesting on is the Test Drive feature which comes as a standard and supports safe driving. It does this by muting the audio if any of the occupants haven’t put their seatbelt on.

The ninth generation Malibu is going to be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT and Premier and will also have a Hybrid version. More on the model and the specific trims is to be announced close to production. And can you believe that the first ever variant of the Malibu has been produced back in 1964?

Source: Chevrolet

April 1, 2015

‘i’ in Scion iA Stands for ‘Incredible’ and ‘Inexpensive’

2016 Scion iA Side View Аs you know, Scion expands its lineup with the wonderful and affordable 2016 iM and the striking, also on an incredible price, 2016 iA model. The iA sedan comes with a versatile Pre-collision safety system and a multi-media panel with a 7-inch display. Both brothers, the iM and iA models are here to show everyone, that a vehicle can be affordable and trustworthy at the same time.

The basic components and tweaks, that make the iA sedan so interesting are the high-strength body, a high-compression 1.5 liter engine, that brings a total of 106 hp (77kW), a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox and a fuel efficiency with ratings at 33 city MPG.

The 2016 Scion models show well-known visuals, which include the sharp-looking headlights and the hexagon-shaped grille. The sport look is further shaped by the black bumper treatment, chrome surround and tailpipe. Other improvements include the extra-light transmission system and a low friction with a shortened stroke. In fact, the automatic gearbox system brings more direct shift and even higher efficiency of fuel consumption.

The front and back suspension units are finely tuned to deliver a well-calculated mix of comfortable driving and a sporty handling. The steering system also had its attention: with the precise hands of the team, you get a light feel, but a fast response, when it comes to steering. All this comes, as expected, with an incredible safety system. You get great amount of airbags and the Low-speed Pre-collision system. A trustworthy saving-life system that hopefully no one will ever use.

The interior comes with premium chrome details, comfortable panel and superior seats. You will enjoy the 7-inch display, the touch screen and the audio system with a total of 6 speakers. We promise. And if you look options for further customization, you have found the right vehicle.

The Scion team offers a wide range of accessories, packs and paint job, so there isn’t something, that you will miss in the Scion iA sedan.

Source: Scion

April 1, 2015

2016 Cadillac CT6 Revealed at the New York Auto Show [VIDEO]

After we have seen the advanced 3.0L Twin Turbo engine of the Cadillac CT6 it is time to see the car and the best way to do this is to visit the New York International Auto Show, where it makes its debut today. The advanced sedan is filled with a range of new technologies which aim to deliver dynamic performance, better fuel economy and the best agility in this class of luxury vehicles.

First to mention is CT6’s new body structure, which is actually an aluminum-intensive architecture that is made of 11 different materials. The goal of the engineers was to achieve more strength. The bold visual stance of the model is due to the long hood and sleek upper body. The “face” of CT6 shows a new grille surrounded by vertical LED blades accompanied by Indirect Fire LED headlamps.

Driving the rear-wheels of the sedan will be several engines. The new among them is the 3.0L Twin Turbo unit, which produces 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 400 lb-ft of torque (543 Nm). This is actually the most powerful V6 in the segment rated at 133 horsepower (99 kW) per liter. This powertrain shows great efficiency due to the eight-speed automatic transmission. The same transmission is linked to the 2.0L I-4 turbocharged unit.

Active Rear Steer, Magnetic Ride Control and Auto Vehicle Hold are just three of the driver-assistance technologies that make this Cadillac special. The interior on the other hand is an example of balance between luxury and spaciousness, combining various materials like expensive leathers and exotic woods, and carbon fiber. The technologies featured inside include the Quadzone climate and Bose Panaray audio system and many others.

Cadillac will begin the production of 2016 CT6 by the end of this year and will be distributed throughout North America, Europe, Korea, Japan, Israel and the Middle East. No words no pricing yet, but we do not expect it to be very low. What do you think?

2016 Cadillac CT6 Specifications:

Model:	2016 Cadillac CT6
Body style / driveline:	RWD or AWD, 5-passenger large luxury performance sedan
Manufacturing location:	Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly, Hamtramck, Mich.
Engines:	2.0L I-4 turbo DOHC DI – 265 hp / 198 kW (est.) 3.6L V-6 DOHC DI – 335 hp / 250 kW (est.) 3.0L V-6 twin-turbo DOHC DI – 400 hp / 298 kW (est.)
Transmissions:	Hydra-Matic 8L45 eight-speed automatic (2.0L turbo and 3.6L) Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic (3.0L twin-turbo)
Brakes:	four-wheel disc with FNC rotors; four-channel ABS
Wheels:	18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch
Wheelbase (in/mm):	122.4 / 3106
Length (in/mm):	204 / 5184
Width (in/mm):	74 / 1879
Height (in/mm):	57.9 / 1472
Curb weight (lb/kg):	less than 3700 / 170

httpv://youtu.be/Gu368D_4t0s

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Cadillac

April 1, 2015

High Class Scion iM Without the High-Class Price

Scion iM Side View

The completely redesigned 2016 Scion iM hatchback is here with an offer to the young drivers – you will get the iM and you will still be able to afford rent, loans, hiking with friends. The model is especially designed to be affordable and yet to bring you the joy of driving a high-class high-performance vehicle. So affordable, that the prices start at 20 000 USD. You still believe it is an April’s Fool Joke? No, it is not.

The iM comes with a striking design – just look at the lower grille, the sharp-looking headlights and the side bezels. Also, the model comes in many color variations: choose between the Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and many more. This all is combined with the incredible performance and fuel-efficiency. As expected, the iM has a revised chassis, double-wishbone suspension and the standard 17″ alloy wheels just to bring you a smooth driving experience on any road.

The incredible balance between performance and fuel efficiency comes from the well designed 137 hp (100 kW) 1.8Liter 4-cylinder engine that uses the Valvematic technology to bring you dynamic and responsive machine that can take you to every corner of the world for the lowest fuel consumption. The vehicle comes with a 6-speed specially designed transmission system, or you can try the optional automatic gearbox, that is well made just for the 1.8 powerplant.

The inside is lovely designed to bring you a high quality material and a luxurious feel. The cabin comes with stylish easy-to-use control buttons that bring even greater boost to the hi-class feel of the iM. The whole Scion iM pack includes Navigation upgrade kit, well-designed body graphic, interior light kit and many more.

So, get ready to get a high-class super vehicle without the high-class price!

httpv://youtu.be/51VQMRbDghU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Scion

April 1, 2015

Porsche Brings the Boxter Spyder in New York

Porsche confidently starts the 2015 season by showing the world the revised Boxter Spyder. The supreme sports car will make debut at New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). We will be dealing with a machine that, as its predecessor, has autonomous character, which makes the Boxter a truly loved and anticipated model. Do you remember the hand-operated roof? Or the manual only gearbox? With the redesigned Spyder come not only these, but many more goodies.

As a true and honorable member of a big family, the Spyder brings a well-known driving experience, but with a present-day technical and performance tuning. Get ready to try a beast, that comes with stiff suspension, that lowers the height with 20mm, supreme brakes, as in the 911 Carrera, tweaked steering capabilities and a 3.8Liter flat six-cylinder powerplant, with overall output of 375 hp (276 kW).

This, in fact, is the lightest and most powerful Boxter up to date. It takes 4.5 seconds to reach from 0 to 100 km/h with a top speed of 180 km/h. The overall fuel consumption is calculated to 9.9L/100 km (28mpg).

And when it comes to driving experience, the Porsche team knows how to bring smile on your face. The interior atmosphere makes you feel the character of the car, as it brings that prime and pure sport car feel. The lightweighted seats come with wider side supports, and the steering wheel is with a diameter of 360 mm – especially made to ensure great agility and response.

As in the spirit of a sport car, the Spyder doesn’t include radio or air conditioning systems, so the overall weight is further reduced. However, you can order them at no cost. In fact, you can get a whole pack of audio system that can be installed in any model of the Boxter line. The Porsche Communication Management system is also included in the optional sets.

Porsche Boxter Spyder will be on sale in July. You can make orders directly from the Porsche Centers.

Source: Porsche

April 1, 2015

Category: Auto News